How To Deal With Insomnia When You Are A Truck Driver

An article I wrote earlier this year in response to a supposed employer as a supposed test of my writing ability. It was stolen and is now WORD-FOR-WORD as the top posting on Google with that title.

By S. R. Morris

Insomnia is a common problem for truck drivers, especially ones who have to drive long distances. Since truck drivers often have to drive irregular hours, it is sometimes difficult for them to sleep when during their “down time.” If you are a truck driver, you know that driving on long, straight monotonous roads can be grueling and lead to severe fatigue. That also makes it very difficult to fall asleep when the body and mind is overtaxed. Even when they are finally able to fall asleep, the result is that the body does not recover as it should or get the full benefit of normal sleep.

 

A variety of things can cause insomnia, but the most common reasons are stress, caffeine, and being overworked. Stress can be caused by nervous tension, constant worry, or just plain anxiety and can lead to more serious complications such as hypertension. If you feel stressed out often, or have bouts of extreme anxiety, you should see a doctor to determine the cause of your stress. Drinking a lot of coffee or caffeinated soft drinks can also lead to insomnia and you may not be able to sleep when you should. Driving at night may also interfere with your sleeping habits so that you cannot sleep when not driving.

 

One of the best ways to deal with insomnia, and often overlooked, is to pay special attention to your diet. Some items in your diet may actually be causing some of your insomnia, or may be adding to the problem and not allowing you to sleep when you need to. Besides coffee, tea, and caffeine-loaded soft drinks, you should also avoid alcohol, spicy foods, and foods that are high in sugar content or high in carbohydrates. Spicy foods, that cause gas or give you heartburn or indigestion, should also be avoided for obvious reasons.  

 

Experts say one of the best ways to relax and get a good night’s sleep is to turn your truck sleeper into a home away from home. A good bed, similar to your bed at home is one way to feel comfortable and inclined to sleep. Bring a favorite pillow or blanket that makes you feel at home. Some people find it tranquil and peaceful to play soft music near your bed. CDs or tapes with nature sounds, night sounds, or serene sounds of ocean waves can sometimes help you relax and fall asleep.

 

While many people turn to sleeping pills and other aids to help them sleep, but natural remedies are often more successful in helping you get the rest you need. The old remedy of drinking a glass of warm milk is confirmed as an aid to sleep by many today. Milk naturally contains tryptophan and is changed into serotonin by the body and promotes restful sleep. Lettuce also contains a substance that provides for a healthy sleep. Some natural teas are advertised to be an aid in helping sleep. Herbs are also touted as aids in sleep including valerian and chamomile. The old adage about counting sleep may not be beneficial to your sleep regimen, but light reading seems to always do the rest.